What is Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray used for?

How does Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray work?

Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray contains the active ingredient oxymetazoline, which is a type of medicine called a decongestant.

When this medicine is sprayed into the nose, the oxymetazoline works by acting on alpha receptors that are found in the walls of blood vessels in the linings of the nasal passages and sinuses. It causes these blood vessels to contract and narrow, thereby decreasing blood flow into the linings of the nose and sinuses. This reduces swelling and the feeling of congestion. It also reduces the production of mucus, helping to relieve a blocked nose.

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The nasal spray helps relieve congestion in a few minutes and the effect of the medicine lasts for six to eight hours.

As the medicine causes the blood vessels in the nose to contract, it minimises the amount of medicine that is absorbed into the bloodstream from the nose. This means that the nasal spray has a relatively local effect in the nose and is unlikely to have side effects on other parts of the body.

How do I use Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray ?

What should I know before using Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray?

This medicine is for use in the nose only and should not be taken by mouth.

Avoid getting the spray in the eyes.

You should not use this medicine continuously for longer than seven days. This is because the medicine can become less effective if used excessively. Your blocked nose is also likely to come back (rebound congestion) when you stop using the medicine if you use it for too long.

Each nasal spray should only be used by one person, to avoid spreading infection.

Who should not use Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray?

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Who should get medical advice before using Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray?

Can I use Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray while pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby.

The safety of Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

It is not known if oxymetazoline passes into breast milk. However, this is unlikely, since the medicine is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream after spraying into the nostrils. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or midwife for advice before using this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

What are the possible side effects of Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray?

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

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As the medicine causes the blood vessels in the nose to contract, it minimises the amount of medicine that is absorbed into the bloodstream from the nose. This means that the nasal spray has a relatively local effect in the nose and is unlikely to have side effects on other parts of the body.

Nasal irritation.

Sneezing.

Dry mouth and throat.

Rebound congestion after prolonged use (see warning above).

Feeling sick.

Headache.

Anxiety.

Irritability.

Awareness of your heartbeat (palpitations).

Increased heart rate.

Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you want any more information about the possible side effects of Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray. If you think your child has experienced a side effect, did you know you can report this using the yellow card website?

Can I take Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray affect other medicines?

If you are already taking any medicines, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using any new medicines while using this one, to make sure that the combination is safe.

You should not use this medicine if you are currently taking a type of medicine called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or have taken one of these medicines in the last 14 days. MAOIs include the antidepressants phenelzine, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid and moclobemide, and the anti-Parkinson's medicines selegiline and rasagiline. This is because the combination could cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.

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